Herbert H. Dow House
SIGNIFICANCE
There have been instances in the history of science in America when a scientific breakthrough or discovery has led to the creation of whole new industries. John W. Hyatt and celluloid, Leo Baekeland and his bakelite, Edward G. Acheson with carborundum, Wallace Carothers and nylon, and C. M. Hall and aluminum are examples of men and their discoveries leading to new industrial endeavors. Herbert H. Dow, chemist and father of the Dow Chemical Company, is a member of this elite group. His discovery of a highly efficient way to separate bromine from raw brine around 1890 led to the creation of a company which today is one of the giants of the chemical industry.
In 1899, Herbert and Grace Dow built 'The Pines,' the first and only home they ever owners. The integrity of both the exterior and the interior of the Dow House are whole. The house has literally undergone no change since Dow's death in 1930. The interior, with its standard center hall plan and also servants' quarters in the rear, is exactly as in the Dow period.
Today, the Pines estate and adjoining property are open to the public as The Pines of Dow Gardens.
DESIGNATION(S)
SIGNIFICANT DATE(S)
LINKS AND FURTHER READING
